Cat® GRADE with ASSIST Makes Accurate Grading Fast & Easy

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For Release in Europe: November 2015
Release Number: 356PR15

Cat® GRADE with ASSIST delivers breakthrough gains in customer efficiency and productivity, elevating grade control on excavators to a new standard. This ground-breaking new technology is the first operator ASSIST feature with semi-autonomous grade control available on Cat excavators, and it begins with the 323E L. GRADE with ASSIST automates grade adjustments that are typically done by the operator using manual controls. Operators at all experience levels can reach target grade up to 45% faster than traditional grading and up to 30% faster than using indicate-only grade control systems.

Integrated Design

Intelligently designed for Cat excavators, this new technology is easy to use from the start. Integration with the familiar Cat GRADE system, display, and joysticks enables the operator to easily create simple 2D designs in the cab, press the auto button, and get to work. Operators can take advantage of the guidance features built into the base system, like grade indication and audible alerts, while using ASSIST technology to perform the precision work—without needing additional hardware. Integration with the machine and hydraulics delivers full power to the cutting edge with precise control throughout the cut, enabling the operator to create fast, accurate grades with less effort. System flexibility enables customers who work with complex grade plans to add Cat AccuGrade™ for additional 3D capability.

Automatic Assistance and Protection Features

ASSIST technology assists the operator when the cutting edge gets within 10 cm of target by locking onto grade and automatically adjusting boom up/down and bucket in/out movements. The operator simply controls stick speed using a single lever—significantly reducing manual inputs and fatigue. The system also automates bucket movements to maintain a constant bucket angle, which is operator adjustable to match cutting angle to digging conditions and can be automatically recalled for next pass. To eliminate the chance of overcutting, a grade protection feature prevents the cutting edge from penetrating below grade—saving contractors the time and cost of rework, additional fuel, grade checking, labor, and fill material.

In addition to helping customers speed grading, PROTECT features safeguard the operator and machine when working near obstacles and around utility hazards. Ceiling and Floor PROTECT prevent any part of the boom, stick, or bucket from going above or below a pre-set elevation— enabling the machine to excavate in areas with low ceiling heights such as indoors and under overpasses, and near above- and below-ground utilities. Operators can quickly disable AUTO control with an OVERRIDE trigger at their fingertips.

Features and Functions

Intelligent control and protection features assist customers in getting more work done.

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